Merc 260/Alpha universal bellows

[candyman_jac]

The 1984 Regal I just bought is in the shop getting a remanufacted Jasper engine to replace the one we found full of water during the pre-sale survey. I also asked the mechanic to install new water pumps in the outdrives.<br /><br />Friday the shop called to tell me that the universal bellows is torn and must be replaced. It's only a $50 part, but will require $150 in additional parts and 5 hours labor. Since the outdrives are already off, I'm wondering if I'm paying the flat rate that includes outdrive removal. Anyone have any experience here?

 

[bigbrownbuku]

Re: Merc 260/Alpha universal bellows

hard to say without seeing the job, but replacing those parts isnt a "fast job" even with the leg off. what other parts are they charging for? bellows, crosses, gimbal.....?

 

[candyman_jac]

Re: Merc 260/Alpha universal bellows

I'm not sure what the other parts are, and I havn't received an invoice yet. The mechanic told me the parts are generally replaced when the bellows is replaced because to replace them later would cost alot more.

 

[xltier]

Re: Merc 260/Alpha universal bellows

the xtra parts is standard but the hours are way high compared to the marine mechanic in town.he says he can do bellows and cable in 2 hours.its a thought

 

[candyman_jac]

Re: Merc 260/Alpha universal bellows

Thanks xltier.<br /><br />I guess I'll have to have a "discussion" with my mechanic

 

[DHPMARINE]

Re: Merc 260/Alpha universal bellows

candyman... When replacng the u-joint bellows it is common to also do the exhaust and shift bellows,as well as the water feed hose.Often the shift cable as well.Removing the drive itself is normally a 15 min. job.The bell housing etc. takes a lot longer.<br /> Now it is all apart,needs cleaning and reassembly,then adjust and run and test.<br /> I don't know how the guy in Maine does it.Maybe the next job thru my door will be farmed out to him.He sounds great.<br />DHP